17 Best coffee shops in Syracuse New York
Syracuse, NY, is a vibrant city that hosts a variety of coffee shops, each offering unique blends and atmospheres. These coffee shops in Syracuse NY range from cozy, independent cafes to popular chains, all serving premium coffee and often providing a space for community gatherings and remote work. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring coffee shops in Syracuse NY is a must.
- 1. Cafe Kubal
- 2. Salt City Coffee
- 3. The Cracked Bean Roastery
- 4. Salt City Coffee
- 5. Recess Coffee
- 6. The Kind Coffee Co.
- 7. People's Place Cafe
- 8. Peaks Coffee Company
- 9. Cafe Blue
- 10. Freedom of Espresso
- 11. Recess Coffee Tipperary Hill
- 12. Hope Cafe
- 13. Varsity Coffee Shop.
- 14. Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters at Destiny USA
- 15. Phoebe's Restaurant & Coffee Lounge
- 16. Heritage Cafe
- 17. Zeroll Deli & Coffee
1. Cafe Kubal
Your nearby haven for all things coffee.

At the Townsend Street location of Cafe Kubal, one can find the perfect cup of coffee they've been searching for. Even when traveling, it can be a challenge to find a coffee shop that meets expectations, but Cafe Kubal consistently delivers. While this reviewer has yet to visit the Colvin Street location, they have been to all the other locations and have always been satisfied. During their visit to the Townsend Street location, they found the staff to be incredibly kind and cheerful, adding to the overall positive atmosphere of the cafe.
Travelers passing through the Syracuse Airport in search of a quality coffee shop can also find solace in Cafe Kubal. With friendly staff, locally roasted coffee, and a cozy dining area, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee before or after a flight. This reviewer's wife and they both enjoyed a delicious Cappuccino, and the reviewer also indulged in a tasty Jalapeño Bagel with Cream Cheese. Cafe Kubal is highly recommended for coffee lovers passing through the Syracuse Airport.
TOPICS
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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2. Salt City Coffee
Neighborhood gathering space with a nostalgic feel

Salt City Coffee is renowned for its exceptional espresso-based coffees, serving all the popular choices such as lattes and cappuccinos. Additionally, they offer a distinctive selection of drinks made with cereal milk, which promises a unique and delicious experience for coffee enthusiasts.
Salt City Coffee is not just a coffee shop, but a charming restaurant that provides a delightful ambiance for coffee and food lovers. The vintage/salvaged art style, combined with exposed brick accent walls, creates a cozy and comfortable living-room-like vibe. The service is friendly and helpful, making it an ideal location for meetings or a casual visit, further adding to its charm and appeal.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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3. The Cracked Bean Roastery
Locally crafted, fresh baked pastries and specialty coffee

This coffee establishment offers a delightful and invigorating experience, with a range of exquisite flavors to choose from in their coffees. The blueberry burst matcha is a must-try, as it is both unique and delectable, providing a burst of flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying. The croissants are a perfect companion to the coffee, with a flaky and buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
The café itself has a charming atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The interior is tastefully decorated, with a cozy and welcoming ambiance that makes it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, offering helpful suggestions to assist in selecting the perfect drink. Overall, this coffee shop is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a great cup of coffee and a delicious pastry.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
4. Salt City Coffee
Craft coffee on The Hill!

Salt City Coffee boasts a reputation for excellent service and a welcoming staff, who are consistently attentive and helpful. Guests have frequently praised the affordable pricing, making it a great option for those on a budget. The cozy atmosphere and tastefully designed decor create an inviting space, making it a popular destination among locals and tourists alike.
The coffee served at Salt City Coffee is highly esteemed, renowned for its exceptional quality. Customers have noted that the coffee is worth traveling for, highlighting its status as a top-tier coffee destination. The establishment's commitment to providing an outstanding coffee experience is evident in its consistently high ratings and positive reviews.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Asian Cuisine
5. Recess Coffee
A staple of the Syracuse coffee scene since 2007.

A delightful light roast coffee has been recently discovered, and its delicious taste is truly impressive! Its unique flavor profile and smooth finish make for an excellent coffee experience. This coffee is perfect for those who prefer a less bitter and more refreshing taste. Its subtle complexity is sure to satisfy coffee connoisseurs and beginners alike.
Recess is a fantastic coffee shop with top-notch staff and a welcoming atmosphere. Their high-quality coffee, combined with delicious bagels, creates a perfect spot for coffee lovers to enjoy their favorite drinks and meals. It's no surprise why customers keep coming back for more. The coffee shop's commitment to quality and service is truly commendable, making it a go-to destination for a satisfying coffee fix.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. The Kind Coffee Co.
Kindness in every cup

The Kind Coffee Co. is a haven for coffee aficionados, with its carefully sourced and freshly roasted beans providing a rich and robust flavor profile. The welcoming ambiance of the café makes it a go-to destination for coffee lovers seeking a warm and inviting space to enjoy their favorite beverage.
The knowledgeable and courteous staff at The Kind Coffee Co. are always on hand to recommend a perfect dark roast coffee or a well-crafted latte. The cozy atmosphere, coupled with the excellent service, makes this café a popular spot for regulars and newcomers alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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7. People's Place Cafe
Student-run, nonprofit coffee shop with a cozy vibe.

A hidden gem on campus, this establishment offers a range of delicious and ethically-sourced fair trade coffee. For those following a vegan diet, there are also several options available, making it a great spot for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a quick pick-me-up between classes or a place to hunker down and study for an exam, this coffee shop is the perfect spot. Its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service are just a few of the reasons why it's a must-visit destination on campus.
If you're looking for a comfortable and inviting spot to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, look no further than this campus favorite. The coffee is always expertly brewed, ensuring a delicious and aromatic experience with every sip. But beyond the coffee, what truly sets this spot apart is the warm and welcoming atmosphere, which is perfect for both solo studies and catching up with friends. The knowledgeable and friendly staff make every visit feel special, whether you're a regular or just stopping by for the first time.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
8. Peaks Coffee Company
Meeting people in their peaks and valleys

Peaks Coffee is widely recognized for its high-quality espresso, featuring a consistently smooth and clean taste that is incredibly satisfying. The baristas at Peaks Coffee are true coffee enthusiasts who take pride in their craft, resulting in an exceptional coffee experience for customers. The steamed milk that they use is of the highest quality, characterized by a delicate microfoam texture that is neither overly frothy nor bubbly.
The exterior of Peaks Coffee shop is charming and inviting, making it difficult to resist the urge to stop in for a cup of coffee. Upon entering, the interior is just as impressive with its sleek and minimalist design. Despite being busy, the staff greets each customer with a warm welcome and efficient service. Overall, Peaks Coffee offers a top-notch coffee experience in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for coffee lovers and newcomers alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
9. Cafe Blue

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Freedom of Espresso
Locally roasted beans for the freshest coffee.

This coffee shop is exceptional and a better choice than the Starbucks across the street. The coffee they serve is top-notch and not overly sweetened, although customers can still customize their orders with added sweeteners. The staff is incredibly friendly and contributes to the shop's welcoming atmosphere.
During a recent visit to Syracuse, this coffee shop quickly became a favorite spot, with the visitors stopping by five or six times. The shop offers excellent coffee, and the staff is extremely friendly, making for an enjoyable experience. As a bonus, they even gave out free homemade cookies to customers. Overall, this coffee shop is a fantastic find for those in the area.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Corporate Events
- Affordable Nightlife
11. Recess Coffee Tipperary Hill
Locally roasted coffee since 2007.

The service at this establishment is consistently varied, friendly, and top-notch. The staff members are known for their kindness and patience, ensuring that each customer feels welcome and valued. The store itself is clean and inviting, with both indoor and outdoor seating options available.
Visitors often rave about the delicious bagels and perfectly cooked muffins served at this location. The coffee offerings, including lattes, espressos, and matcha, are also highly praised. Whether customers are looking for a quick breakfast option or a place to relax and enjoy a drink, this establishment is sure to please.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
12. Hope Cafe

TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
13. Varsity Coffee Shop.

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
14. Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters at Destiny USA
Freshly roasted coffee from around the world

Finger Lakes Coffee Shop is widely regarded as the top coffee spot in the area. They boast a wide range of coffee options, featuring limited edition selections during holidays. The "Jamaican Me Crazy" blend is particularly noteworthy and a favorite among patrons. The shop's convenient mall location means it can get busy, but there is plenty of seating available. The staff are consistently friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere of the shop.
In addition to their in-store offerings, Finger Lakes Coffee Shop also allows for online ordering. They offer a discount on the 9th of every month for online orders. Their selection of flavored coffees is impressive and unique, with organic options available that are free of harsh chemicals that can upset stomachs. Whether you choose to order online or visit one of their stores, Finger Lakes Coffee Shop is highly recommended for their wide range of high-quality coffee options and exceptional customer service.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
15. Phoebe's Restaurant & Coffee Lounge
A Syracuse staple since 1976 with a vintage charm.

Phoebe's is a coffeehouse in Syracuse that stands out for its inviting lounge area and amiable staff, making it an ideal destination for coffee lovers. The establishment is well-known for serving excellent coffee, and it has become a popular spot for those seeking a great cup of joe in the area.
This charming coffeehouse boasts a comfortable lounge area and offers delicious espresso drinks. The relaxed ambiance of Phoebe's makes it a perfect place for an afternoon break. The quality of their coffee drinks is consistently high, making it a go-to spot for coffee aficionados.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
16. Heritage Cafe
Best customer service on the SU Hill

A visit to Heritage Cafe offers a delightful experience, with its inviting ambiance and exceptional staff. Customers are greeted with warm smiles and efficient service, creating an atmosphere that is both comfortable and enjoyable. The establishment's focus on locally sourced and fresh ingredients results in delicious sandwiches, salads, soups, and espresso beverages.
Recess Coffee, a local favorite, is the exclusive coffee provider for Heritage Cafe, adding to the overall appeal of the establishment. In addition to their coffee offerings, Heritage Cafe also provides house-made pastries, elevating the cafe experience. Overall, a visit to Heritage Cafe means indulging in great coffee and tasty food in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
17. Zeroll Deli & Coffee

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options